Loved by all who knew her, Shirley Kotoucek, (nee) Evans, passed away on July 15, 2023.
Survived by husband Randy, brother Ricky (Sherry) Jones, niece Melinda Simpson (Bob), Aunt (Doris Evans),a host of wonderful cousins, nieces, nephews and numerous friends.
Shirley was preceded in death by her mother and father, Imogene (Barnes) Jones, William Evans and brothers Frank Evans, his wife (Barbara) and William” Billy” Evans.
Shirley was born in Kennett, Missouri in 1946, and lived subsequently in St. Louis, Poplar Bluff, Rogers Arkansas, and Granite City Illinois. After her parents divorced she and her dad loved to hit the open road and travel to visit family and friends. At times things were tough and Shirley spent long periods living with her generous and gracious aunts and uncles. She grew up with cousins that were more like brother and sisters to her. Those bonds remained strong throughout her life.
Shirley enjoyed life, travel and good wine. She loved yoga, Pilates, line dancing, Tai Chi and Mahjong. In the summer months you could find her at the pool relaxing and working on her tan. She also took piano lessons. sewing lessons and interior design courses. Fortunately Shirley got to travel the USA and parts of Europe to see great cities and many interesting sights. She smiled her way through with those that did not speak English, and met new friends along the way.
She was fanatic about dogs, she never met a dog she did not like. Her desire was to volunteer at animal shelters to befriend and care for animals, but decided it best not to do so, as she wanted to take all of them home. Her own dogs, Butchie, Micky and Sydney were always deeply loved and pampered. When an elderly neighbor needed to move to a nursing facility, Shirley promised to take in his dog Joey, and he was also deeply loved and pampered.
Her list of friends is endless, and each one is eager to share memories and stories of their time together.
Service: A Graveside service will be held at Park Lawn Cemetery, 1800 Lemay Ferry Rd., Lemay, Missouri 63125, at 10:30 a.m. on August 5th. 2023. Information is available via the Kutis – Lemay Ferry website. Donations to American Cancer Society, Crisis Aid International or any dog/animal concern.
Our heartfelt condolences to Randy, her family and friends. Shirley was always a beacon of light with the ability to bring everyone around her such joy and laughter. We surely will miss her.
“Lil Cuz”
Shirley never met a stranger. She was always filled with joy and energy and one of the funniest people I have ever known. The world is a little less bright without Shirley but I can only imagine the brightness of heaven with her arrival. Till we meet again, thank you for your friendship.